An Outdoor Oasis in Kohimarama, Auckland

Looking for the Wow-factor

When homeowner Craig was looking to overhaul his dated and unused outdoor space, he sought out Landscaping Specialist Kate Ryan for help.

Craig wanted to maximise the usage of his backyard and give it the wow factor. He was looking to fit in a brand new swimming pool and design an outdoor kitchen with a dining area for a comfortable living area no matter the season.

When talking Kate through his vision, he knew he’d come to the right assistance. Craig was relieved knowing that Kate and her landscaping team could design and manage the entire process, including handling pool consent and engineering.

Seeing the final landscape design was the clincher for Craig. It was everything he’d imagined it would be. With the original budget sitting at $200,000, including the pool, Craig was more than happy to extend this to $250,000 to have the best design possible for his space.

Getting Started

Once outdoor excavation had begun, Kate and her team discovered traces of asbestos, which unfortunately delayed the work.

Kate stepped in to manage this turn of events and ensured the hazardous substance was removed quickly and efficiently so that her team could get back to building Craig’s outdoor oasis.

Although the pool was dug during the middle of winter, the team ended up with a fantastic run of good weather. The sun was on their side, and despite the delay with excavation, the project ran smoothly under Kate’s guidance.

An Outdoor Oasis

Craig’s outdoor space has been truly transformed. The dated garden was overhauled to create an outdoor oasis, complete with tropical plants and a glittering swimming pool.

In a contemporary contrast of old and new, parts of the existing red brick were kept in the final design. This decision was an excellent move as the bricks perfectly complement the custom-made corten steel gate and planter box additions. Sleek and rustic, these fixtures make beautiful statements – though the gate is particularly outstanding, featuring a built-in letterbox and black hardware.

Concrete blockwork walls frame the gate from inside the property, creating a dramatic entrance with marble granite stairs leading down to the tropical landscape. The combination of colours and textures is stunning. As for the rest of the fencing, Craig chose a modern panel & pillar fence that provides a neutral background with privacy and sound blocking properties.

The luxurious swimming pool is the highlight of this landscaping project. With black mosaic tiling skimming the waterline, it truly is a sight to behold. Lush foliage adds to the tropical feel of this space, providing a burst of green to balance out the various natural tones. 

Not to be forgotten, a new louvre roof shelters the elegant dining area that’s complete with a galaxy outdoor kitchen sourced from Placemakers. LED lighting installed in the louvre roof provides the perfect finishing touch, highlighting the space below for a truly magical evening escape; it’s undoubtedly become the ultimate place for poolside living. 

Time to Relax

Craig absolutely loves his transformed outdoor space. With the project completed in time for spring, he’s been using the pool and entertainment area non-stop. 

He was impressed with Kate’s communication throughout the entire project, which made the process smooth and easy, from creating the design to managing the build. It was a wonderful landscaping project, and Craig enjoyed watching Zones Landscaping bring his vision to life.

Would you like to discuss your home renovation ideas?

Get in touch for a free consultation with your local Landscaping Specialist.